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22 Pages : 202-215

http://dx.doi.org/10.31703/gssr.2020(V-III).22      10.31703/gssr.2020(V-III).22      Published : Sep 2020

Investigating Sociocognitive Functions of Mother Tongue in a Postgraduate EFL Classroom in Pakistan

    Recent studies, however, have shown that MT serves a symbolic tool and can be way more effective in L2 learning than the exclusive use of TL. While many studies have examined the extent and functions of MT, only a few have explored the sociocognitive functions using Vygotsky's sociocultural (SCT) framework. The present study, therefore, adopted SCT to examine the amount and sociocognitive functions of MT. Classroom observations and stimulated recalls interviews were used to collect data from MBA students (n=6). Results showed that, learners MT use made up only 14% of the total amount of speech in L2 classroom. Most importantly, MT performed important functions, such as scaffolding, intersubjectivity and cognitive regulation. MT facilitated vocabulary learning in L2 through scaffolded help; created intersubjectivity by increasing motivation, reducing anxiety, and helped internalize L2 through cognitive self-regulation. A number of implications for classroom pedagogy and language policy have also been discussed.

    Mother Tongue, Second Language Learning, Sociocultural Theory, Medium of Instruction, Higher Education, Language Policy
    (1) Hassan Syed
    Assistant Professor, Department of Education, Sukkur IBA University, Airport Road, Sukkur, Singh, Pakistan.
    (2) Farhan Bhutto
    Lecturer, Department of English, Sukkur IBA University, Airport Road, Sukkur, Singh, Pakistan.
    (3) Tanweer Syed
    Lecturer, Department of Education, Sukkur IBA University, Airport Road, Sukkur, Singh, Pakistan.